Cerebrospinal Fluid Cell Count (with Differential)
This test measures the number of cells in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), including white blood cells and red blood cells, along with a breakdown of different types of white blood cells (such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, etc.). It helps assess conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord.
["Understanding your CSF cell count can help diagnose or monitor neurological conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51223-6
- Short code
- CD105CSF
- Synonyms
- CD105 Cells NFr CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile CSF collection tube (polypropylene), tube #2 or #3 preferred to minimize blood contamination
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Flow cytometry
- CPT
- 86356
- SNOMED
- 395128002
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of cerebrospinal fluid
- Stability
- Analyze within 4 hours of collection at room temperature (20-25°C); may be refrigerated at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours if immediate analysis is not possible; do not freeze
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, fever, or neurological issues. It’s often used to check for infections (like meningitis), bleeding, inflammation, or other abnormalities in the central nervous system.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll have a small needle inserted into your spine (usually in the lower back) to collect CSF. The procedure is quick but may cause mild discomfort. No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications or allergies.
What the Results Mean
High cell counts (especially white blood cells) may indicate infections, inflammation, or immune responses. Red blood cells could suggest bleeding. A detailed differential helps pinpoint the specific type of cells involved, guiding further treatment.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is critical for diagnosing conditions like bacterial or viral meningitis, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, or autoimmune diseases affecting the CNS. It also helps track responses to treatments.
Reference range
CD105-positive cells are typically absent or present in very low numbers in normal cerebrospinal fluid. Reference values are laboratory-specific; results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other CSF parameters.N/A
No special patient preparation is required. Lumbar puncture should be performed under sterile conditions by qualified personnel.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
CSF Cell Count
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low cell count mean?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Is the CSF test painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy